在第一年，每个学生都在三个不同的实验室进行研究。为了帮助学生熟悉BCMB中的许多不同研究机会，举行了教师和学生研究讲座的静修会。整个9月，学院的研究报告将继续进行。在半年度的轮换演示中，学生有机会在三个轮换项目中的两个上发表一个演讲和一个海报。在三个轮换的最后，每个学生选择一个实验室进行论文研究。
The Departments of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Neuroscience, Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, and Physiology jointly provide a program of study leading to the PhD degree. The objective of the Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology (BCMB) program is to provide students with the breadth of knowledge and research training that will prepare them for their own independent and productive careers. Strong emphasis is placed on molecular and cellular approaches to fundamental problems in research areas covered by the participating departments. The focus on a broad background in basic science for all students promotes the study of problems of biomedical importance from a mechanistic perspective. The multi-departmental nature of the program fosters a collaborative environment that is ideal for graduate training, and promotes the extensive interaction and collegiality that is a hallmark of Johns Hopkins science.<br>Training includes a rigorous and broad-based first year curriculum, research rotations in three different laboratories, a proposal-based qualifying exam (along with a proposal-writing workshop), and thesis research in the laboratory of one of more than 100 participating faculty members. Once they join a laboratory, students establish a departmental affiliation and participate in their departmental journal clubs and seminars. At the same time, students continue to maintain their BCMB identity and affiliation in a number of ways. These include attending the annual BCMB retreat, assisting in the recruitment of new students, hosting a one-day symposium with outside speakers, and participating in a monthly student research colloquium (organized by BCMB students for their peers). There is no formal teaching requirement for BCMB students, but many opportunities for gaining teaching experience are available.